Okowa wades into Aladja, Ogbe-Ijoh crisis

ASABA—WORRIED by the protracted crisis between Ogbe-Ijoh/Aladja communities in Udu and Warri South West Local Government Area, Delta State, the state governor, Mr Ifeanyi Okowa, yesterday, set up a Panel of Inquiry with Professor Abednego Ekoko as Chairman to look into the matter.

Inaugurating the panel at Government House, Asaba, Okowa lamented the effect of boundary crisis not only on peace and security of the communities and the state but also on development, investments and the state’s economy.

The governor said, “This administration is always committed to the pursuit of peace and security in all communities, but boundary crises have continue to create hate among ourselves and our youths are now trained to see each other as enemies, we need to do the right thing which is to settle for peace, so as to allow development to take place.

“Boundary crisis is inimical to development and also creates image problems for the state. Such acts contribute to the frustration and disenchantment experienced by members of the society. Economically, it can scare away potential investors and the relocation of existing industries from our communities to other states, thereby creating avoidable economic challenges for our state.”

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to ensure peace and security in all communities in the state, Okowa charged members of the panel to explore all available means of dialogue in settling their differences.